1 Prepare for safe work
Photograph the item, verify its stability and value, and first test the procedure in a hidden spot. Work with ventilation, gloves, and eye and respiratory protection.
⚠ Warning: Old coatings may contain lead, and a valuable antique can lose value with unprofessional cleaning. First evaluate any unknown coatings or serious structural damage with a restorer.
2 Determine the condition and cause
Remove the drawer, empty it, and mark each part. Check if the corners, bottom, runners, or all joints are loose.
3 Perform the key check
Carefully disassemble only the joint that is already separating, remove the old brittle glue without widening the groove, and perform a dry test fit.
4 Do the repair or maintenance
Apply appropriate wood glue, clamp the drawer at a right angle, and verify the diagonals. The bottom should remain free if it is originally sliding.
? Tip: Photograph the initial state and change only one thing at a time. This makes it easier to determine what really solved the problem.
5 Test the result
Allow the glue, coating, or finish to dry completely according to the manufacturer, then gradually load the item and inspect the joints under good lighting.